IMPORTANT pieces of Darwen's heritage hidden away for years are to be presented to the new Chamber of Trade.

A silver shield and cup which had been collecting dust in an attic and a silver presidential chain all dating from the 19th century made for the former Chamber of Trade will be seen in public again on Thursday.

Andrew McAllister, 54, of the One Stop Copy Shop in Railway Road, will be named as president of Darwen Chamber of Trade and the chain of office will be handed to him.

He was given the items -- a Best Dressed Shop Window shield and chamber cup - a few years ago by the widow of the last president. She had kept them in her attic for over 20 years and Mr McAllister has since kept them safe.

Mr McAllister said: "It's amazing, when she came up with that stuff I thought Wow, I've got to put this away'. These things tend to get swallowed up and disappear. It's amazing we've got them. They are an important part of the town's past." Coun Tony Melia has repaired and cleaned the shield and cup ahead of the presentation. He has kept the chain of office in his safe since 1986 when the last Chamber of Trade ceased to exist.

He said: "There will be a ceremony handing the items back to them. The chain, cup and shield are solid silver and worth an absolute fortune. As far as Darwen's heritage is concerned they are priceless."

Denise Gee, 39, of Richmond Park, one of the founding members of the new Chamber of Trade, said: "This will make it a really special occasion.

"We are bringing back Darwen's heritage. I'm so proud."

Five founding members, who have their own businesses in Darwen, are inviting traders to the launch on Thursday with a view to joining.

It will be an informal meeting so traders can talk to Chamber of Trade members and make contact with owners and managers of other Darwen businesses.

The launch will be held at Frankie's Bar in Church Street from 7pm.